What is SiBr4?

According to Reference.com, SiBr4 is the chemical formula for the inorganic compound silicon tetrabromide. Tetrabromide is a colorless liquid which tends to hydrolyze with the release of hydrogen bromide. This process creates a stifling smell.

The basic properties of silicon tetrabromide parallel those of silicon tetrachloride (SiCl4), which is commonly favored over SiBr4 because it has a higher purity and is more readily available.

Silicon tetrabromide has only a few unique applications. When treated with ammonia, it produces silicon nitride coatings. This hard compound, Si3N4, is commonly used as a coating for sealants and ceramics. It is also found in the production of cutting tools.